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The inclusion complex of diphenylamine (DPA) in 2-hydroxypropyl β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) was synthesized by a co-precipitation method. The structure and molecular properties of the newly synthesized inclusion complex (DPA: HP-β-CD) were investigated along with a β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) inclusion complex (DPA: β-CD) using various analytical and theoretical methods. Phase solubility, absorption, fluorescence, Fourier transform-Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) techniques were used to investigate the structural properties of the DPA before and after being encapsulated by the CDs (β-CD and HP-β-CD). Furthermore, the antioxidant and antibacterial activities were evaluated for DPA and the inclusion complexes (DPA: β-CD and DPA: HP-β-CD). The structure of the inclusion complexes was proposed based on the experimental results and their structural optimization was done using Becke's three parameter density functional theory using Lee-Yang-Parr's 3-21 G method in the gas phase. Then the various theoretical molecular properties, such as frontier molecular orbitals (FMO), molecular electrostatic potential map (MEP), Mulliken atomic charges, natural bond orbitals (NBO), electron localization function (ELF), localized orbital locator (LOL), quantum theory of atoms in a molecule (QTAIM) and noncovalent interactions—reduced density gradient (NCI-RDG) were studied for DPA and its inclusion complexes using the Gaussian 09 W software and Multiwfn 3.8 tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mathematical modeling in biology is quite interesting in the field of real-world problems. This research paper focused on the interaction between two prey and one predator species. Here, our interaction is based upon the competition between two prey and one predator including an additive Allee effect in the predator population along with a Holling type II functional response. Further, this intuition allowed us to prove the positive invariance and boundedness of the model. This analysis shows that there are six equilibrium points including the coexistence of all three populations. Stability analyses are also derived and proved both locally and globally. Also in this paper, we discussed the optimal control approach to reduce the population affected by an Allee effect by the predator population. Numerical simulations are carried out to support our theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current work investigates the erosion-corrosion behaviour of thermally sprayed tungsten carbide-10% nickel (WC-10% Ni) coatings placed on the AA6061 aluminum alloy. The AA6061 aluminum alloy was coated with tungsten carbide –10% nickel coatings utilising a high-velocityoxy-fuel (HVOF) spray method. The microstructure and hardness of thermally sprayed coatings were examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and a Vickers hardness tester. The slurry erosion-corrosion wear tests were carried out by varying the parameters of the slurry erosion process, such as testing time, slurry content, slurry speed, and impinging particle size, on the erosion testing equipment. The data demonstrated that when slurry concentration, slurry speed, and impinging particle size increased, so did the slurry erosion-corrosion wear loss. The wear processes of uncoated and thermally sprayed tungsten carbide –10% nickel have been examined using SEM and a 3-D confocal microscope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Friction stir welding is an environmentally friendly process of joining due to the nonusage of flux, or any shield gas, and it does not produce any harmful gases when compared to the joining process of fusion. Therefore, this article proposes an experimental investigation and optimization technique for studying the process of FSW on nylon 6A or polycaprolactam polymer composite plates. Specifically, the influence of input operating process parameters such as tool rotational speed (TRS), feed rate, and pitch values on the output response parameters like ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and hardness of welded joints is examined. In addition, L27 orthogonal array of Taguchi approach is employed for the optimization of design experiments of FSW parameters. The experimental setup is carried out with various process parameter combinations like 500 rpm, 1000 rpm, and 1500 rpm as TRS, and 30 mm, 40 mm, and 50 mm as feed rate by varying the pitch values as 1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm. Further, the analysis of variance (ANOVA) is also employed for finding the significant parameters of input process using the regression analysis equations. Finally, microstructural analysis is used to assess the mixing or dispersing uniformity of composites effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In data mining, classification is one of the most critical steps in predicting the target class. It is performed by an improved model in existing work in which feature selection is performed based on the bat optimization method to increase the classification accuracy. This study uses an enhanced neural network for classification, including intuitive, interpretable correlated-contours fuzzy rules. Further, a practical model is created based on the extraction of fuzzy rules, where data partitioning is performed via a similarity-based directional component. However, the dataset used for experimentation is noisy and incomplete data values. Due to incompleteness, knowledge discovery is obstructed, and the classification results are affected. Here bat provides very slow convergence and easily falls into local optima. To solve this issue, an improved framework is introduced in which missing value imputation is performed by using k means clustering, and then for feature selection, an improved cuckoo search optimization is used. An enhanced classifier based on fuzzy logic and alex net neural network structure (F-ANNS) is used for classification, and hybrid ant colony particle swarm optimization (HASO) is used for optimizing parameters of the alex net neural network classifier. The results show that the proposed work is more effective in precision, recall, accuracy, and f-measure as shown by experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: India is facing an epidemic of diabetes mellitus (DM). Effective management of complications of DM is a challenge in resource-poor areas of India. This study addresses the need to explore low-cost methods to manage diabetic ketosis (DK) and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Objectives: To demonstrate the use of intramuscular (IM) regular insulin as a safe alternative method to control DK and DKA in a family practice setting. Materials and Methods: A retrospective chart review was done for 34 patients admitted with DK and DKA in a family medicine unit for the urban poor over 5 years. Data on age, sex, precipitating factors, blood pressure, number of days of hospitalization, amount of insulin, and time required to control blood glucose (BG) and to correct acidosis were entered into EpiData version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS software version 17. Results: Administration of IM regular insulin was effective in reducing the BG to <250 mg/dL in patients with DK and DKA. The mean time required for this in the ketosis group was 3.8 h and in the ketoacidosis group was 3.9 h. The mean amount of insulin required for correction of acidosis in the ketoacidosis group was 72.3 units and the mean time to achieve this was 33 h. Of the 34 patients, only one in the ketoacidosis group had hypoglycemia. There was no fatality or referral of any patient. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that IM regular insulin is a safe alternative method in managing DK and DKA in a family medicine setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Universal pre-discharge assessment of risk for neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. A common algorithm is universal transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) screening, followed by confirmatory total serum bilirubin (TSB) testing for results which cause concern. There is a paucity of data on the feasibility of TcB screening in low-income settings. Objectives: To evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of implementing universal TcB screening at a resource-limited hospital in rural India, and to determine if it was associated with increased recognition of high-risk hyperbilirubinaemia. Methods: In December 2012 at Vivekananda Memorial Hospital, Karnataka, India, universal TcB screening at 24–48 hours of life was implemented, with TSB estimated if TcB was >75th percentile for age. The proportion of families that provided consent and the proportion of infants who underwent TcB and TSB testing were calculated. The rates of phototherapy pre- and post-implementation and the rate of high-risk hyperbilirubinaemia (TSB >95th percentile for age) post-implementation among infants ≥ 35 weeks gestation were determined. Results: Parents of 568 of 660 (86%) eligible infants consented to participation. All of these infants were screened with TcB. The proportion who had TSB testing was similar in the pre- (6%) and post-implementation (7%) periods. The rate of phototherapy was not significantly different after implementation (2%vs3%). Five cases of high-risk hyperbilirubinaemia were identified post-implementation. Conclusions: The study demonstrates the acceptability and feasibility of universal TcB screening at a resource-limited hospital in rural India. In settings in which early post-discharge follow-up cannot be assured, TcB can play a valuable role in identifying infants who need evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NBT based ceramic composites (1-x) Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3-xSrTiO3where x = 0.05, 0.10, 0.15 and 0.2 are prepared by solid state sintering route. Individual phases are obtained through sol-gel method. Polarization characterization was done using P-E loop measurements at various temperatures for all samples. Psand d33values obtained are used to estimate electrostrictive coefficient (Q). Curves drawn between strain versus electric field showed butterfly like nature. The electrical characteristics of these composites are investigated using impedance spectra in the temperature range from room temperature (∼30°C) to 500°C at different frequencies in the range of 100Hz-1MHz. The effect of grain and grain boundary interface on the electrical properties of these composites with temperature and composition are evaluated from impedance data analysis. These samples showed a combined relaxation process due to individual phases, resulting in frequency spread. Bulk resistance (Rb) and bulk capacitance (Cb) values are estimated from semicircle fittings. The activation energies for conduction and relaxation for pure and composites helped to assess the conduction mechanism within the samples. The Vogel Fulcher fit helped in estimation of relaxations observed in the samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new equation is proposed to describe the simultaneous temperature and frequency dependence of dielectric constant and impedance of relaxor ferroelectric compounds. It is applied to Ba(NdxTi1-2xNbx)O3relaxor compounds by non linear curve fitting to experimental data to check its validity in terms of fitted parameters obtained which have logical values. The validity can also be known from the regression value. This new equation may be used to characterize the dielectric behaviour of other relaxor ferroelectric compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two organic cocrystals namely, 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-dione:2-naphthoxyacetic acid [(phendione)(2-naa)] (1) and 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-dione:2-formylphenoxyacetic acid [(phendione)(2-fpaa)] (2) were synthesized and studied by single crystal XRD, FT-IR, NMR, thermogravimetric, and powder X-ray diffraction analysis. The molecular properties of cocrystals were studied using density functional theory (DFT), basis set B3LYP/6-31G(d,p). Both cocrystals are stabilized through intermolecular hydrogen bonding (OH...N). The total electron density and molecular electrostatic potential surfaces of the cocrystals were constructed by NBO analysis using B3LYP/6-31G(d,p) method to display the electrostatic potential (electron + nuclei) distribution. The energy gap between HOMO and LUMO was measured for both cocrystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In our earlier studies we have shown procedure for the estimation of activation energy and relaxation times directly from the dielectric and AC conductivity data simultaneously dependant on T and ω using modified Lorentz equation instead of well-known Arrhenius, modified Arrhenius and Vogel-Fulcher laws. In the present paper we have carried out similar experimental and simulation studies on the dielectric and AC conductivity data using modified Lorentz equations on the ceramic compound (Ba0.997Pr0.003TiO3). The obtained results on the activation energy and relaxation times are presented in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The settling behaviour of heterogeneous nucleating particles such as TiAl3, TiB2, AlB2 and TiC in liquid Al has been studied through vertical sectioning experiments. The experimental results obtained were correlated with the settling rate of the particles calculated using the Stokes' law. The TiB2 and TiC particles show larger settling tendency among all particles studied. The overall settling behaviour of the particles is largely influenced by their size distribution in their respective master alloys, their agglomeration and dissolution behaviour in the liquid Al. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of TiAl3 particle size and distribution on their settling and dissolution behaviour in molten aluminium during grain refinement has been studied. For this purpose Al–5Ti master alloys containing blocky TiAl3 particles of different size and distribution are synthesised at reaction temperatures 750, 800 and 850 °C for 60 min and used for grain refinement. The extent of fading and the recovery due to stirring is calculated from the measured grain size and used to judge the dissolution and settling behaviour of TiAl3 in molten Al, which is greatly attributed to its size and distribution in Al–5Ti master alloy. Fine TiAl3 particle dissolve faster in the melt and cause fading. Larger size TiAl3 particles exist for longer time in molten Al and act as a nucleating site even when added in hypoperitectic concentration (0.05 wt% Ti). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nano particulate Barium Bismuth Titanate (BaBixTi1-xO3-δ) materials with (x = 0.25, 0.075. 0.125 and 0.175) were prepared through sol-gel chemical route (Pichini method) and the XRD patterns were indexed on the basis of tetragonal-BaTiO3 phase. The electrical impedance measurements were carried out on the samples by using Auto Lab PGSTAT30 impedance analyzer in the frequency region 100 Hz-1 MHz from RT to 500°C. Impedance spectroscopic and complex explicit plots show the presence of both bulk and grain boundary effects, and impedance spectroscopy is shown to be an efficient method capable of detecting the conductivity species and estimating the electrical conductivity as well as activation energy value. Finally, the results are interpreted in terms of the defect dynamics and conduction mechanisms taking place in the samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tri (Dy3 +) and pentavalent (Nb+5) modified new polycrystalline material of Aurivillius family (Dy0.75Bi3.25Ti2.9625Nb0.03O12) was prepared by solid-state reaction method and the lattice parameters were calculated by using X-ray diffractogram. Impedance measurements were carried out from room temperature to 500°C in the frequency range of 100 Hz to 1 M Hz. Impedance spectroscopic plots show non-Debye type and detailed ac-conductivity analysis was also employed to understand the heterogeneity of the present electro-ceramics. The results were corroborated with the proposed defect formula and in addition, thermal stimulated current measurements show that the present sample has an excellent pyroelectric response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effect of doping in Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 (NBT) with Ce3+ and Sm3+ at the A-site on dielectric behaviour, impedance and conductivity is being reported. Na0.5Bi0.5-xAxTiO3 samples (A being Ce and Sm) are studied with varying values of x. For Na0.5Bi0.5-xCexTiO3 samples x is 0.001, 0.005 and 0.007 and for Na0.5Bi0.5-xSmxTiO3 samples x is 0.05, 0.1 and 0.15. Dielectric constant and loss are studied in the frequency range 10 kHz to 1 MHz and in the temperature range 30-650°C. Impedance and electric modulus studies are undertaken. The relaxations observed in the samples are non-Debye and activation energies for relaxation and conduction are evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tantalum modified strontium bismuth titanate ceramic discs with general formula SrBi4Ti(4-5x)Ta4xO15 with x = 0, 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 have been prepared through solid state reaction method. The samples are poled and dielectric constant, loss and AC conductivity measurements are done in the temperature region (30–600°C). Ta5+ doping brought out interesting changes in dielectric phase transition behavior of the samples. Dielectric loss and conductivity measurements indicate the presence of charged defects. The results indicate changes in the distortion of the lattice. The distortion is calculated from the changes in the Curie temperature. AC conductivity results are understood in terms of the unoccupied sites and oxygen vacancies that are present in the samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effect of doping in Na0:5Bi0:5TiO3 (NBT) with Ce3+ and Sm3+ at the A-site on dielectric behaviour, impedance and conductivity is being reported. Na0:5Bi0:5-xAxTiO3 samples (A being Ce and Sm) are studied with varying values of x. For Na0:5Bi0:5-xCexTiO3 samples x is 0.001, 0.005 and 0.007 and for Na0:5Bi0:5-xSmxTiO3 samples x is 0.05, 0.1 and 0.15. Dielectric constant and loss are studied in the frequency range 10 kHz to 1 MHz and in the temperature range 30-650°C. Impedance and electric modulus studies are undertaken. The relaxations observed in the samples are non-Debye and activation energies for relaxation and conduction are evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium Potassium Niobate ceramic with perovskite structure has been prepared through solid state reaction using conventional double sintering method. The starting materials are mixed in the stoichiometric proportion. The compound is characterized through x-ray diffraction to ensure the formation of single phase. From this data, the lattice parameters are determined. The temperature dependence of the dielectric constant and loss factor are obtained over a wide frequency range. Both dielectric constant and loss factor show two peaks. The dielectric and loss peaks observed at lower temperature are found to be of less intensity. The second dielectric anomaly observed around 430°C is found to follow Curie-Weiss law. The curie constant ‘C’ is observed to be around 10 5 °C. Impedance measurements are also made in the temperature range 30°C to 550°C in frequency range 500 Hz to 1 MHz. Dispersion of impedance with frequency show peaks, which vary both with temperature and frequency. The relaxation times are obtained from these peak frequencies. Activation energy of relaxation is calculated and the results are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bismuth in SrBi 4 Ti 4 O 15 is partially replaced with La 3 + to synthesize SrBi (4 - X ) La X Ti 4 O 15 , with x = 0.25,0.5,0.75. The samples have been prepared by sol-gel method using ethylene glycol gel and aqueous solution. This sol-gel process offers some advantages, such as homogeneity and stoichiometry control. The structural characterization of the samples is done using powder X-ray diffraction measurements. The samples are electrically characterized by using dielectric and impedance spectroscopy measurements in the frequency range of 500 Hz to 1 MHz, and temperature range from RT to 600°C. These samples show strong frequency and temperature dependent dielectric relaxations. The power law dependence on a.c conductivity is evaluated. The effect of La 3 + substitution on dielectric, impedance and a.c conductivity is studied. The results obtained are interpreted in terms of the pluckering and on the consequent lattice distortion that is usually present in Bismuth Layer Structured Ferroelectrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary intraosseous carcinoma/odontogenic carcinomas are extremely rare malignant odontogenic tumours that are thought to arise from residues of odontogenic epithelium. An unusual case of primary intraosseous carcinoma arising de novo in a previously unreported site of posterior maxilla is described. The tumour was characterized by sheets of pleomorphic round-to-ovoid cells and marked osteoid/dentinoid formation with foci of globular mineralization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The variations in the protein profile of aortic-valvular (AVE) and endocardial endothelial (EE) cells are currently unknown. The current study's objective is to identify differentially expressed proteins and associated pathways in both the endothelial cells. We used endothelial cells isolated from the porcine (Sus scrofa) aortic valve and endocardium for the profiling of proteins. Label-free proteomics was performed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Our proteomics analysis revealed that 29 proteins were highly expressed, and 25 proteins were less expressed in the valve than the endocardial endothelium. The cell surface markers, such as CD63, ICAM1, PECAM1, PROCR, and TFRC, were highly expressed in EE. In contrast, CD44 was highly expressed in AVE. The pathway analysis showed that metabolic process-related proteins and extracellular matrix-related proteins were enriched in valves. Differential enrichment of signaling pathways was observed in the endocardium. The hemostasis function-related proteins were increased in both endothelial cells. The proteins and pathways enriched in aortic-valvular and endocardial endothelial cells revealed the distinct phenotype of these two closely related cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Case: We present a case of 19-year-old male patient with right sided comminuted metadiaphyseal distal femur fracture. Fixation was done using distal femur condylar locking plate. Washers were used with the screws to shimming the plate to achieve the coronal alignment and prevent stress over the screws. 2-year follow-up shows good alignment, radiological union and functional outcome without any complications. "Shimming" a locking plate with washers helps to achieve the better coronal alignment in comminuted metadiaphyseal distal femur fractures with coronal malalignment. It reduces the stress over screws and prevents implant-related complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The single cell get electrophoresis (SCGE) assay, also known as the comet assay is a cytogenetic technique for measuring and analyzing DNA single stranded breaks (SSB) and or alkali labile sites within individual cells. Peripheral blood leukocyes of 22 oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients were subjected to SCGE and the DNA damage levels (SSB) were quantified with respect to clinical staging and histopathologic grading. Highly statistically significant differences in DNA damage levels were found between normal subjects and patients with OSCC of the same age group. DNA damage levels were altered in all clinical stages and histopathological grades of oral squamous cell carcinoma. The differences were generally significant between all the clinical stages of OSCC, while in histopathologic grading the results were significant only between grades I and III. The results support the concept of a systemic host response in malignancy.

Background: The present study is focused on documentation of the husbandry practices and phenotypic characterization of Bidri goats, which is essential in recognition and improvement of this breed. Methods: A total of 20 random flocks in 7 villages were investigated. Data was collected as per the standard format suggested by ICAR-NBAGR (2012) and was statistically analyzed using analysis of variance in R software environment. Result: The average flock size of these goats was 33.43±4.73. The smaller flocks were generally housed in the part of residence, whereas, larger flocks (30-40 goats) were housed separately. Random mating was observed as males and females were grazed and housed together. These goats were predominantly black (73%), but black with white patches on ears, forehead, neck and knees (18%) and black with brown coat color (9%) were also found. The eyelids, muzzle and hooves were generally black in color and few exceptions were also seen. The forehead was straight in most of the goats but it was convex and concave shaped in very few. In these goats, 78 per cent were horned and were generally upwards, backwards, outward and curved, 13 per cent had downwards, backwards, outward and curved horns. Majority of these goats have pendulous ears and very few had horizontal ears. The average age at first estrus, first kidding, weaning age and kidding interval observed were 10.33±0.24, 17.57±0.40, 4-6 and 8.48±0.38 months, respectively. Usually the first kidding was single; twinning and triplet was 40 and 5 per cent of the breedable does, respectively. The mean body weight was 32.88±1.04 kg in bucks and 30.08±0.59 kg in does. Bidri goats are distinct and selective breeding would improvise the economic traits in these goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myiasis is an opportunistic infestation of human and vertebrate animals with dipterous larvae. Oral myiasis is a rare condition associated with poor oral hygiene, mental disability, halitosis and other conditions. We present a case report of an adult mentally challenged woman with extensive necrotic oral lesion burrowing into the hard palate through which three live maggots (larvae) were seen emerging out. The larvae were removed using forces and the patient was treated with oral ivermectin. The maggots were identified as larvae of the Chrysomya bezziana fly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advancements in the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Mass Spectrometry (MS) along with recent developments in omics sciences have resulted in a better understanding of molecular mechanisms and pathways associated with the physio-pathological state of the animal. Metabolomics is a post-genomics tool that deals with small molecular metabolites in a given set of time which provides clear information about the status of an organism. Recently many researchers mainly focus their research on metabolomics studies due to its valuable information in the various fields of livestock management and precision dairying. The main aim of the present review is to provide an insight into the current research output from different sources and application of metabolomics in various areas of livestock including nutri-metabolomics, disease diagnosis advancements, reproductive disorders, pharmaco-metabolomics, genomics studies, and dairy production studies. The present review would be helpful in understanding the metabolomics methodologies and use of livestock metabolomics in various areas in a brief way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The central dogma of molecular biology is responsible for the crucial flow of genetic information from DNA to protein through the transcription and translation process. Although the sequence of DNA is constant in all organs, the difference in protein and variation in the phenotype is mainly due to the quality and quantity of tissue-specific gene expression and methylation pattern. The term methylation has been defined and redefined by various scientists in the last fifty years. There is always huge excitement around this field because the inheritance of something is beyond its DNA sequence. Advanced gene methylation studies have redefined molecular genetics and these tools are considered de novo in alleviating challenges of animal disease and production. Recent emerging evidence has shown that the impact of DNA, RNA, and protein methylation is crucial for embryonic development, cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and phenotype production. Currently, many researchers are focusing their work on methylation to understand its significant role in expression, disease-resistant traits, productivity, and longevity. The main aim of the present review is to provide an overview of DNA, RNA, and protein methylation, current research output from different sources, methodologies, factors responsible for methylation of genes, and future prospects in animal genetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few studies reported the efficacy and safety in combination of clozapine and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in schizophrenia; systematic studies are lacking. Side effects like seizure, and confusional state are reported. Authors report two cases of delayed onset/protracted delirium with ECT and clozapine in schizophrenia, one of whom developed aspiration pneumonitis possibly due to clozapine hyper-salivation. Delirium improved with stopping of ECT and clozapine. Clozapine monotherapy restarted to previous dosages in both cases without recurrence of delirium. Authors recommend for careful monitoring for delirium in ECT augmentation on high dose clozapine. Unilateral ECT may be preferred for augmenting clozapine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As validation is an integral part of current good manufacturing practice, nowadays, it is practiced in all pharmaceutical industries to assure that the manufacturing process is in control and products of high quality are obtained. Building of quality needs attention in the manufacturing process, from the raw materials to finalized product. The current research work is to perform prospective process validation for the manufacture of ketoprofen fast dissolving tablets (FDT) of 50 mg dose. Various trials and challenge studies were done to finalize critical process parameters. Three consecutive batches of ketoprofen FDT with the same batch size, procedure, equipment, and validation criteria were done and critical process parameters were monitored in each stage such as sifting, mixing, and compression. In-process quality control tests were performed for each batch. Friability, disintegration, dissolution, uniformity of dispersion, and assay were the major evaluation parameters considered. An average disintegration time was found to be 18-19 s and 97% of dissolution within 30 min, drug content ranging from 98.4% to 99.5% was achieved. All results complied with acceptance criteria. Evaluation results of all three batches were within acceptance criteria. The results concluded that current process validation was reproducible meeting all predetermined process variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fractures of the proximal humerus represent approximately 4% of all fractures and 26% of humerus fractures. Proper reduction, stable internal fixation and early initiation of physiotherapy help to achieve a good functional outcome. Aim of this study was to evaluate varus fixation/malunion of proximal humerus fractures and its relation to functional outcome. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 32 patients with proximal humerus fractures who were surgically treated between 2015 and 2017 at tertiary care hospital. We divided the patients into three groups on the basis of the neck-shaft angle as valgus group, normal group and varus group to observe the influence of neck-shaft angle on efficacy. Patients were evaluated for functional outcome using the Constant–Murley score. Results: Two-part fractures had better functional outcome (Constant score = 75.15) compared to three parts with the moderate functional outcome (Constant score = 68.81) and the four-part fracture had poor functional outcome (Constant score = 52.66). After 6 months of follow-up, 13 patients had a neck-shaft angle of less than 126°. The functional outcome is significantly better among patients with normal neck-shaft angle and had a mean Constant score of 76.63 as compared to patients with varus deformity had a mean Constant score 60 (p = 0.001). 10 patients did not have medial support, in which 08 patients had neck-shaft angle less than 126° and 2 had a normal neck-shaft angle. Conclusion: High fracture comminution, improper restoration of medial continuity causes varus deformity of the humeral head and it leads to poor functional outcome. The small sample size is the limitation of our study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Samarium modified SrBi4-xSmxTi4O15 (x = 0, 0.13, 0.43 and 0.78) ferroelectric ceramics of Aurivillius family were prepared by conventional solid state reaction method. X-ray diffraction studies confirm the formation of a single-phase. Microstructural images show randomly oriented palate-like structure. Broad dielectric peaks were found to obey the modified Curie-Weiss law. The overall inherent ferroelectric nature was explained on the basis of the Avrami model. Furthermore, with increasing the Sm3+ content, the grain morphology and diffusive parameters have shown a comprehending impact on the ferroelectric (hysteresis) behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Application of growth factors at wound site has improved the efficiency and quality of healing. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) induce proliferation of various cells in wound healing. Delivery of growth factor from controlled release systems protect it from degradation and also result in sustained delivery of it at the site of injury. The goal of the study was to develop a Polyethylene glycol (PEG) cross-linked cotton-like chitosan scaffold (CS-PEG-H) by freeze-drying method and chemically conjugate heparin to the scaffold to which the growth factors can be electrostatically bound and evaluate its wound healing properties in vitro and in vivo. The growth factor containing scaffolds induced increased proliferation of HaCaT cells, increased neovascularization and collagen formation seen by H and E and Masson's trichrome staining. Immunohistochemistry was performed using the Ki67 marker which increased proliferation of cells in growth factor containing scaffold treated group. Frequent dressing changes are a major deterrent to proper wound healing. Our system was found to release both VEGF and bFGF in a continuous manner and attained stability after 7 days. Thus our system can maintain therapeutic levels of growth factor at the wound bed thereby avoiding the need for daily applications and frequent dressing changes. Thus, it can be a promising candidate for wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fibrous dysplasia is a rare condition in which bone is replaced by fibro-osseous tissue. It is a benign condition, divided into monostotic and polyostotic fibrous dysplasia, which accounts for about 5-7% of all benign bone tumours. In this case report a 38-years-old male patient that presented with left hip pain since 15 days and had a history of trauma. X-ray pelvis and MRI showed shepherd's crook deformity in the left proximal femur with pathological femur neck fracture. It was managed with valgus osteotomy for deformity correction and fracture fixation using long proximal femur nail and cannulated cancellous screws. At one and half year follow-up, the patient showed good hip and knee range of motion with no complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Millions of lives have been impacted by COVID-19, which has spread rapidly. Several vaccines have been developed to curb the severe prognosis induced by the virus. However, a part of the population (elderly and patients with coexisting conditions) is still at risk. It is crucial to identify these patients early since appropriate treatments can be provided to them to prevent the onset of severe symptoms such as breathlessness and hypoxia. Hence, this study utilizes machine learning and explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) to predict COVID-19 severity using biochemical, haematological and inflammatory markers. The patients are grouped into three classes: mild, moderate and severe. Four nature-inspired techniques have been utilized to select the best markers. The final stacked model obtained a maximum accuracy of 84. Demystifying the models has been done using four XAI techniques, including Shapley additive values (SHAP) and Local Interpretable Model-Agnostic Explanations (LIME). Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), albumin, D-Dimer, c-reactive protein (CRP) and lymphocytes were considered important, according to them. The classifiers can be utilized as a prognostic decision support framework to aid the medical personnel in classifying COVID-19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The theoretical investigation of five 3,3'-(phenylmethylene)bis(1H-indole) derivatives (BIM1, BIM2, BIM3, BIM4 and BIM5) with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) were studied using density functional theory B3LYP 3-21G method as basis set. Substituents (–OCH2COOH and -OCH3) at the ortho-, para- and meta- positions in the phenyl ring of BIMs (BIM 1–5) has changed the stability of inclusion complexes BIMs:β-CD with forming 1:1 stoichiometric ratio. To access the chemistry behind this orientation and composition, we have studied the geometrical parameters, complexation energy, HOMO-LUMO energy gap, chemical reactivity, thermodynamic parameters, Mulliken charges and molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) map for all inclusion complexes (BIMs:β-CD) with stable orientation. Natural bond orbital (NBO), NCI-RDG and QTAIM analysis revealed the prospects of hydrogen bonds (=N–H–O and –O–H–O) between BIMs and β-CD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SmxBi3–xTiNbO9 (SBTN) with x = 0 , 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8 and 1.0, a novel type of ceramic was prepared by a conventional solid-state reaction method. X-ray diffraction patterns confirm the formation of a single-phase, and lattice parameters were calculated based on the parent compound Bi3TiNbO9 (BTN). Well-defined grains were seen in the scanning electron microscopy pictures. A kink observed near 400°C for all the samples in the dielectric plot as well as in the stretched exponential parameter (β) vs. temperature plot reveals the dielectric relaxation of the samples. The tolerance factor (t) was found to increase with increase in the size of the A-site (Bi-site) modified ion (Sm). Impedance and modulus spectroscopic studies were conducted to understand the plausible reason for the dielectric relaxation. The relaxation was found to be well-fit with Arrhenius equation. SBTN samples showed lower dielectric loss compared to BTN. The remnant polarization, obtained from experimental, was found to be less than that of theoretically calculated polarization, using Shimakawa's formula. The proposed defect mechanism was interpreted using FTIR and Raman spectroscopic studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out to evaluate the genetic polymorphism in Ovine MTNR1A of two tropical breeds ie., highly prolific NARI Suwarna sheep and Mandya sheep from southern peninsular region of India with respect to differential fertility. Fifty animals from each breed were randomly selected and subjected to RsaI-RFLP analysis of exon-2 of Ovine MTNR1A. The study revealed monomorphic patterns in all the animals for both the breeds. PCR amplicon of 824 bp fragments with four cut sites at 53 bp, 320 bp, 343 bp and 754 bp, resulted in 411 bp, 267 bp, 70 bp, 53 bp and 23 bp. Only presence of CC genotypes at rs406779174 SNP of Ovine MTNR1A in both the breeds supports non-seasonality in breeding of these animals and no association of SNP with increased fecundity of NARI Suwarna sheep over Mandya sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(100-x) BaTiO3(BT)-(x) CoFe2O4(CFO) (X = 10, 20 and 30 wt%) composites were prepared through conventional solid state reaction method by mixing two individual phases by weight. Structure and surface morphology of the composites were observed using X-ray diffraction and Scanning electron microscopy respectively. Polarization study of the BT-CFO composites was done by measuring the polarization (P) against the electric field (E) up to 30 KV/cm, pattern observed showed good ferroelectric behaviour with Pmax= 4.10 µC/cm2for BT-CFO/90-10. In order to estimate the effect of magnetic phase on ferroelectric nature of BT, dielectric and magnetoelectric measurements were also done on the composites and are presented here. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Ferroelectric ceramic materials NaxK1-xNbO3(NKN), with x = 0.0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.8 and 1.0 are synthesized by solid state double sintering method. The synthesized materials are characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The x-ray diffraction studies indicate orthorhombic structure except for x = 0.4 (which has monoclinic structure). The SEM micro-graphs indicate a gradual change in the morphology of the samples. Growth of microfibers is observed in x = 0.5 samples. For higher compositions the microfiber morphology is changed.DSC of the samples showed phase transitions. Dielectric constant versus temperature plots indicated ferroelectric to paraelectric phase transitions. The complex impedance plots in higher temperature range are single semi-circles. The equivalent circuits contain parallel combinations of resistance and capacitance elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bismuth layered structure ferroelectric materials of Aurivillius family have been attracted on account of their inherent-ferroelectric properties. Rare earth modified two layered compound, namely, Bi3TiNbO9has been found to be a relaxor ferroelectric material, and therefore much attention is being concentrated to enhance the dielectric properties with different modifications. In view of this, Sm-modified novel ceramic(Bi2SmTiNbO9) was prepared by the conventional solid-state reaction method. Impedance spectroscopic measurements were made as a function of frequency at different temperatures. Electrical studies were also made, and the results were corroborated to the Raman spectroscopic data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bismuth titanate (BT-‘Bi4Ti3O12’) is one of the extensively studied materials of the Bismuth layered structure ferroelectric (BLSF) family for its large spontaneous polarization along c-axis. In the present investigation, we have synthesised SmxBi4-xTi3O12(x = 0.37, 0.57, 0.72) ceramics using the conventional solid-state reaction method. The dielectric anomaly was observed near 450°C. Well-broad hysteresis loops were observed above room temperature up to 100°C. The coercive field (Ec) and consistent remanent polarization (Pr) values with temperature, compared to BT, indicates that the title compound has good promising ferroelectric-nature. This phenomenon is attributed to the easy recovery of defects (such as oxygen vacancies) accumulated at grain-interfaces, above room temperature, resulting in to well-hysteresis behaviour. The results were further confirmed with remanent polarization (2 Pr vs. temperature) plots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 27-year-old man suffered a relatively minor trauma. He developed signs of raised intracranial pressure three days after injury. Investigations revealed superior sagittal sinus and torcular thrombosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cyclin B1 is important in the cell cycle progression from G2 to M phase. Cyclin B1 binds to CDC2, which then becomes dephosphorylated and gets relocated to the nucleus, ensuring the transition toward mitosis. Aim: Over expression of Cyclin B1, has been reported more recently in breast, colon, prostate, oral and esophageal carcinomas. Thus, the aim of the present study was to examine the expression of Cyclin B1 in hyperplasia, dysplasia and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinomas (OSCC). Materials and Methods: A total of 64 histopathologically diagnosed cases of epithelial hyperplasias, dysplastic oral epithelium and OSCC were included in the study. Immunohistochemical procedure was carried out using the monoclonal mouse Cyclin B1 antibody (Clone V-152). The Cyclin B1 positive tumor cells counted were expressed as percentage of positive tumor cells. Nuclear and cytoplasmic labeling index (n&cLI) were calculated. The results were tabulated and statistically analyzed by Kruskal Wallis test- One Way ANOVA and Mann Whitney U- test. Results: Combined n&cLI was considered only in 28.57% of epithelial hyperplasias, 40.7% of oral epithelial dysplasias and 72% of OSCC showed over expression of Cyclin B1 with p value being 0.029. Cyclin B1 expression was not significantly different between the grades of dysplasia, between the grades of OSCC and between the marginal groups. Conclusion: The present study demonstrates more than 50% of the study group showing less than 20% of nuclear staining. The importance of such variations within a type of lesion requires further investigation, since Cyclin B1 has proved useful in many studies from esophageal and laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma as a prognostic indicator, an indicator of recurrence and as an indicator for tumor sensitivity to radiotherapy. Further studies are to be extended towards evaluating the role of Cyclin B1 as a prognostic indicator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modified Lorentz equation is proposed to describe the resonance and anti-resonance behaviour of piezoelectric ceramics. It is applied to Ba(NdxTi1−2xNbx)O3, (Na0.5Bi0.5)(NdyTi1−2yNby)O3and Sr1−2zNazNdzBi4Ti4O15piezoelectric ceramics by non linear curve fitting to experimental data to check its validity. The validity is checked from the regression values obtained. The static dielectric constant, infinite dielectric constant, polarizability, piezoelectric charge constant and piezoelectric voltage constant obtained from the non linear curve fitting to experimental data by using modified Lorentz equation have reasonable values. The above modified equation may also be used to describe the resonance and anti-resonance behaviour of other piezoelectric ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]